Articles From The Experts

In this episode, jewellery specialist Aurélia Turrall looks at the rare and valuable world of pink diamonds. These diamonds are prized for their vibrant colour, which is caused by crystal distortion rather than trace elements like other coloured diamonds. Pink diamonds are extremely scarce, with only 0.1% of the world's total diamond production classified as such.

In this episode, jewellery and watches specialist Liz Bailey looks at a major jewellery trend in 2024, “divorce rings.” Supermodel Emily Ratajkowski helped popularise this trend after her divorce, by repurposing her diamond engagement ring into two separate pieces. But the concept of repurposing jewellery after divorce is not new; it dates back to the early 20th century. Women on both side of the Atlantic altered their wedding rings to signify divorce, sometimes resizing them to be worn on a different finger or adding symbolic designs.

In this episode, silver specialist Fiona Hamilton looks at the decadent silver ornamentation produced during the British Raj in India (1858-1947). The flourishing silver industry was driven by increasing demand from the British and a rising Indian middle class. Notable companies like P. Orr & Sons and Oomersee Mawjee became famous for their ornate silverware, featuring local styles such as the Swami, Kutch, and Lucknow designs. These exquisite works, ranging from tea services to punch bowls, adorned British and Indian homes alike, symbolising affluence and cultural exchange during this colonial era.

In this episode jewellery and watches specialist Liz Bailey explores the fascinating history and legal battle surrounding John Lennon’s Patek Philippe ref. 2499 watch. This rare and iconic timepiece, gifted to Lennon by Yoko Ono just months before his tragic death, has been embroiled in a nearly decade-long lawsuit. The watch, which mysteriously disappeared for 34 years before resurfacing in the hands of an Italian collector, is now at the centre of a court case in Geneva. The legal dispute, expected to conclude by the end of 2024, has captivated collectors and watch enthusiasts, with many anticipating the potential auction of this historically significant watch.

In this episode, Old Master specialist David Dallas reviews the results from the Old Master sales that took place in London in early July. The results show a market where desirable works achieve high sales, while less sought-after pieces struggle. Day sales at both Christie’s and Sotheby’s were underwhelming, with numerous unsold lots and modest totals. However, evening sales were significantly more successful, particularly for Christie’s.

In this episode, silver and jewellery specialist Jenny Knott Jenny Knott provides an overview of the history and significance of Olympic medals. Medals often fetch high prices at auction, far exceeding their material worth. A reflection of the pinnacle of Olympic success and the personal value athletes place on their medals.

In this episode, art & antiques specialist Stephanie Connell looks at the history and memorabilia of the Olympic Games, beginning with the first modern games held in Athens in 1896. She looks at the evolution of Olympic symbols, including the rings and torches, and the incorporation of art and design into the games as well as notable auctions of Olympic memorabilia, illustrating the enduring legacy and collectible nature of Olympic history.

The release of series 3 of Bridgerton on Netflix has provided viewers with a visual feast – brightly hued costumes, sensational floral displays, grand balls, outlandish wigs, and of course – some fabulous jewellery! In this episode jewellery & watches specialist Liz Bailey explores the dazzling world of Georgian jewellery. She delves into the history and allure of parures, matching sets of jewellery, which were particularly fashionable during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Often comprising of hair ornaments, necklaces, earrings, bracelets, brooches, and stick pins, they are becoming rarer and increasing in value in today’s market.